Liberal MPs Jean-Luc Pepin, left to right, Art Phillips and Herb Gray discuss strategy in preparation for the opening of Parliament in Ottawa in this 1979 file photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Peter Bregg

Vancouver's mayor is remembering the life of one of his predecessors, who died today at the age of 82.

A statement from Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson says former mayor Art Phillips was a visionary leader and citizen who made an indelible mark on the city.

He says Phillips will be remembered for his contributions to social housing and parks.

Phillips served as the city's mayor in the 1970s and was responsible for municipal decisions that paved the way for downtown densification, including the fight against a waterfront freeway.

Credited with making Vancouver the liveable city it is today, Robertson awarded Phillips the city's highest honour in 2010 for his contributions while in office.

Premier Christy Clark has also offered her condolences to Phillips' family, calling him transformational and a true gentleman who achieved success in every aspect of his life, be it business, politics or family life.

She says those who call Vancouver home owe him a great debt and she joins all those who are mourning the loss.

Phillips was elected to the House of Commons, winning a Vancouver seat for the Liberals in 1979 but losing it in 1980.

He is survived by his wife Carole Taylor, who served as British Columbia's finance minister in the Liberal government of Gordon Campbell.